RAFA PRAISES HAT-TRICK HERO CROUCH

Steve Hunter 31 March 2007 Rafael Benitez was full of praise for Peter Crouch after he scored his first hat-trick for Liverpool in the 4-1 win over Arsenal.

The Liverpool manager felt it was a thoroughly deserved victory by his team and was delighted with the overall display. "It was a really good team performance and we wanted to give our supporters something special today," enthused Benitez. "Crouch hadn't played for 20 days because of his nose operation and he was desperate to play and score goals. All of his goals were fantastic and I really liked the move between Pennant and Arbeloa for his first goal. "To score four goals against a top side is really good and we are fighting hard for that third place. I still think we have played better games this season but I am really pleased with the team today. "Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano controlled the midfield and it has set us up nicely for the Champions League against PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday." The Liverpool manager revealed after the game that Steven Gerrard was substituted because he felt the captain was tired after the international break. Craig Bellamy and Steve Finnan were rested but will return to the squad along with Sami Hyypia for the trip to PSV. Watch Liverpool Fc Live Video Match 1-0 Crouch 2-0 Crouch 3-0 Agger 3-1 Gallas 4-1 Crouch